Words For When Life Is Tough

The poem Desiderata has inspired many since its creation in the early 20th century. Its words offer guidance on how to live a meaningful and peaceful life. But what does Desiderata truly mean, and how can we interpret and apply its message in today’s world? This post explores the core ideas behind Desiderata and offers practical ways to apply its wisdom.

What Is Desiderata?

Desiderata is a Latin word meaning 'things desired' or 'things to be sought after.' The poem was written by Max Ehrmann in 1927. It presents a set of what can best be described as gentle instructions for living with kindness, calm, and integrity. The poem encourages us to seek fulfilment without losing sight of reality, and to treat others with respect and dignity.

The tone of Desiderata is calm and reflective. It does not demand or command but invites us to consider what a balanced approach to life might look like. The poem’s appeal lies in its simplicity and exposition of universal truths, which resonate across cultures, creeds, and generations. I have reproduced here, in full, for educational purposes:

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,

and remember what peace there may be in silence.

As far as possible without surrender

be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly;

and listen to others,

even the dull and the ignorant;

they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,

they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,

you may become vain and bitter;

for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.

Keep interested in your own career, however humble;

it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs;

for the world is full of trickery.

But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;

many persons strive for high ideals;

and everywhere life is full of heroism.

Be yourself.

Especially, do not feign affection.

Neither be cynical about love;

for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment

it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,

gracefully surrendering the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.

But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.

Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.

Beyond a wholesome discipline,

be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,

no less than the trees and the stars;

you have a right to be here.

And whether or not it is clear to you,

no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,

whatever you conceive Him to be,

and whatever your labours and aspirations,

in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,

it is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful.

Strive to be happy.

Key Themes in Desiderata

Several themes stand out in Desiderata, each offering valuable insights and points for ongoing exploration:

Peace of Mind: The poem advises to 'go placidly amid the noise and haste,' reminding us to of the value of calmness even when life feels chaotic and confusing. This means valuing moments of quiet in the midst of our busy lives characterised by competing, contradictory, and often overwhelming demands.

Self-Respect and Acceptance: Ehrmann encourages us to 'be yourself' and avoid the temptation or practice of critically comparing ourselves to others. Accepting who we are, with our myriad strengths and weaknesses, is a step toward self-compassion and inner peace.

Compassion for Others: The poem highlights the importance of kindness, regardless of whether or not it is acknowledged or reciprocated. It suggests that we should be cognisant that everyone is fighting their own battles, of which we may know nothing, therefore patience and understanding are paramount.

Balance Between Ambition and Contentment: Desiderata advises to us to 'nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.' This means being prepared for life's inevitable challenges and reversals, particularly those that can assail us without notice, whilst not allowing ambition to metamorphose into anxiety or greed.

How to Apply The Lessons Of Desiderata Today

Interpreting Desiderata involves more than simply reading its words; it requires consideration on how the key tenets fit into modern life. Here are some practical ways to apply its message that you may find useful:

Practice Mindfulness/Spiritual Reflection: Take time each day to pause and breathe. Mindfulness helps reduce stress and keeps us grounded, echoing the poem’s call for calmness amidst the distraction. You may also include time for spiritual reflection, or prayer, if that is meaningful for you.

Set Healthy Boundaries: Being kind and compassionate does not mean sacrificing your health and well-being. Learning to say no when necessary is vital in protecting our emotional and psychological health, and is in alignment with the poem’s invitation to avoid people who challenge our sense of peace.

Embrace Imperfection: Accepting that life is not perfect, and that mistakes are part of how we learn and grow individually and in relationships of all kinds. This mindset reflects the poem’s gentle acceptance of our human flaws, eschewing the negativity of judgement and condemnation.

Cultivate Gratitude: Focus on what we have rather than what we lack. This is especially true for seemingly insignificant things - the smile from a stranger, the understanding of a colleague, or the ability to spend time in nature. Gratitude fosters contentment and helps maintain a positive outlook, as suggested by the poem’s encouragement to enjoy our achievements; these can be 'human' achievements, such as the ability to bear unavoidable suffering, or turning a tragedy into an opportunity - these are often overlooked.

Why Desiderata Still Matters

The poem’s wisdom remains, and will continue to remain, relevant. Its simplicity captures the essence and profundity of universal human experiences. Living by the principles in Desiderata means choosing calm over chaos, kindness over judgement, and acceptance over comparison. These choices shape a life that, despite its imperfections, is meaningful and values connections with others and the environment in which we live.

Acquainting or reacquainting ourselves with poetry of all genres can facilitate an opening of our hearts and minds in line with our values and what matters most to us.

Desiderata, as you already may have already decided, is a wonderful place to start.